A fine Indian Mutiny Medal awarded to Drummer P. Tallent, 54th Regiment of Foot, who was barely in his early teens when he witnessed active service overseas

Indian Mutiny 1857-59, no clasp (4282 Drumr. P. Tallent H.M’s. 54th. Regt.) edge knocks, better than good fine £300-£400

Patrick Tallent was born in the town of Mullingar, County Westmeath, Ireland, in 1845. Renowned for its pewterware, the majority of the young men in Mullingar at this time were employed in the metal industry, agriculture or the military. Choosing the latter, Tallent was one of 14 Drummers who served with the 54th Regiment of Foot in India during the Mutiny. He later returned to England where he married Elizabeth Ann Hunter at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Bermondsey, on 26 February 1868, the marriage document stating, ‘Drummer 54th Regt.’

It appears that the young couple briefly set up home in Bermondsey before Tallent was discharged from the 54th Foot on 8 December 1868. Relocating to Salford, Tallent was employed as a metal worker and later a labourer in a copper works. and died at Salford in September 1904.